Find the real gaps
Open your official NI record and note the exact years, prices and payment deadlines.
Updated for 2026/27
Should you fill your NI gaps?
Enter the figures from your official record. We will show the possible cost, extra pension and how long it may take to recover your payment.
Clear assumptions Your figures stay private
35
years is only a general guide. Your own State Pension forecast is more important.
01
Your pension picture
Use figures from your official State Pension forecast where possible.
02
Gaps you could fill
Calculation assumptions
Uses the 2026/27 full new State Pension of £241.30 a week and a simplified 1/35 annual accrual. Your actual uplift can differ because of pre-2016 and contracted-out history.
A safer way to decide
Three checks before you pay
Confirm they add value
A missing year does not always increase your pension, particularly with contracted-out history.
Compare cost and return
Model the after-tax uplift, break-even time and value over your expected retirement.
Practical guides
View all guides Understand the decision, not just the number
Before paying HMRC
Ask the Future Pension Centre whether the specific year will increase your pension. Contributions are not normally refundable just because they did not improve your entitlement.